Overview
In this role you will lead European site selection for data centres, owning end‑to‑end appraisal and acquisition. You will shape market strategies, oversee due diligence, and manage permitting, landowner negotiations, and utility coordination. Collaborating with cross‑functional teams, you will guide strategic decisions on greenfield, brownfield, and M&A opportunities, driving energy and connectivity considerations. You will report to senior leadership and influence investors with clear, data‑driven insights and a hands‑on leadership style.
Responsibilities
- Lead and develop the Site Selection team
- Create near-term and multi-year site acquisition and market strategies
- Source opportunities and lead technical due diligence
- Negotiate with landowners, authorities, and utilities, focusing on power availability
- Align power capacity with fibre, infrastructure, and zoning requirements
- Engage local authorities on community and economic development matters
- Maintain liaison with internal stakeholders on progress, risks, and approvals
- Build strategic relationships with utility providers on energy trends and connections
- Provide hands-on leadership for projects, tracking progress, risks, and financial metrics
Key requirements
- Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Engineering, Technology, Real Estate, or relevant field, or equivalent experience
- Extensive experience in site acquisition, real estate, and engineering design/construction
- European market experience is essential
- Strong analytical, communication, and problem-solving abilities
- Stakeholder management across functions and levels
- Cross-functional collaboration and stakeholder influence
- Excel
- PowerPoint
- Knowledge of permitting and energy usage considerations
Director/Senior Director, Site Selection CONFIDENTIAL in London employer: Macdonald & Company
Join a dynamic in-house legal team that values collaboration and professional growth, offering a unique opportunity to work on high-profile construction projects in a supportive environment. With a focus on employee development, you will gain invaluable experience while contributing to significant industry advancements, all within a culture that prioritises innovation and teamwork. Located in a vibrant area, this role not only promises meaningful work but also a chance to thrive in a forward-thinking organisation committed to building safety and compliance.
